Otters contest cuteness election as Japan goes to polls

TOKYO - A "general election" is now under way to choose the most popular otter at aquariums and zoos across Japan.

Sunshine Aquarium in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, is leading the event, the first of its kind in Japan, which involves the "candidacy" of 79 otters and five groups of otters from 36 zoos and aquariums. Online voting continues through Oct 9.

"It's a contest of cuteness," an organizing official said. "We want a lot of people to participate in the vote."